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The BOW Technologies ZZ-8 mk III is a flagship high-fidelity CD player and digital-to-analog converter renowned for its exceptional sound quality and build. It uses two stacked Burr-Brown PCM1702 20-bit DAC chips per channel in a unique stacking configuration to shorten signal paths and improve temperature stability, resulting in excellent multi-bit conversion and low-level resolution. The digital filter employs 8x oversampling for superior sound. The player features a top-loading Philips CDM12 Pro transport mechanism mounted on a heavy brass subchassis for stability and reduced vibration. The chassis is a 35-lb sculpted, satin-polished anodized black aluminum housing designed for mechanical and acoustic isolation, with options for rubber feet or metal spikes for grounding. It offers a single unbalanced analog output via Teflon-insulated RCA connectors, and digital outputs include RCA and BNC coaxial. The unit supports HDCD format and includes a wireless RC-5 remote control. Power supplies for digital and analog sections are independent to minimize interference, and a standby function allows the analog section to remain energized for optimal performance. The front panel has a black acrylic display with adjustable brightness. The ZZ-8 mk III is noted for its dense, bomb-shelter-like construction and minimalist control interface, emphasizing sound quality over complexity. It is highly regarded for its resolution, tonal quality, and spatial presentation, making it a unique and sought-after player in the high-end audio market.
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The CD-07's bit depth is 24-bit against the ZZ8 III's 20-bit, its output voltage 2.0V RMS against 2.8V RMS, and its weight 10 kg (22 lbs) against 16 kg (35 lbs). Both share max sample rate (192 kHz).
The M6 CD's bit depth is 24-bit against the ZZ8 III's 20-bit, its output voltage 2.2V RMS against 2.8V RMS, and its weight 11.2 kg (25 lbs) against 16 kg (35 lbs). Both share max sample rate (192 kHz).
The ProLogue Eight's bit depth is 24-bit against the ZZ8 III's 20-bit, its output voltage 2.0V RMS against 2.8V RMS, and its weight 11.5 kg (25 lbs) against 16 kg (35 lbs). Both share max sample rate (192 kHz).
The DP-55V's bit depth is 24-bit against the ZZ8 III's 20-bit, its output voltage 2.5V RMS against 2.8V RMS, and its weight 11.8 kg (26 lbs) against 16 kg (35 lbs). Both share max sample rate (192 kHz).
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